The latest version, and by far the deadliest andmost versatile, is the Trident C-4 underseanuclear weapons system. Its longer-range missiles,larger submarines, and complete U.S. homeports, have increased combat readiness and cutthe operating costs of the FBM force. Trident isthe name of the entire weapons system, includingsubmarines, missiles, and base. The Tridentmissile can reach enemy targets from both theAtlantic and Pacific Oceans, thus makingexpensive overseas ports unnecessary for Tridentsubmarines. In addition, the Trident I missile hasbeen adapted for use with our present Poseidonsubmarines. This has increased the missile rangeto 4,000 nautical miles. All Trident submarineshave exceeded their performance design specifica-tions in speed and quietness and have successfullylaunched Trident (C-4) test missiles. Both thePoseidon and Trident missiles have a multiplewarhead capability.Figure 1-2 shows the Trident submarine, USSOhio, SSBN 726. Trident submarines arereplacing the aging fleet ballistic missilesubmarines built during a short period in the1960s. They will replace Poseidon submarines bythe late 1990s.In 1980 the Navy began development of a newsubmarine-launched ballistic missile, the TridentII (D-5), with improved accuracy, extended range,and greater payload. Eventually all Tridentsubmarines will be configured to carry Trident IImissiles.SURFACE ACTION GROUP (SAG)Task force or group commanders include intheir operation orders provision for SURFACEACTION GROUPS (SAGS), which can be detachedto perform certain missions. They prepare a battleplan for these forces to followFigure 1-2.USS Ohio (SSBN-726).1-7